Two Navy jets collided during an air show performance at Mountain Home Air Force Base in Idaho on Sunday, forcing all four crew members to eject as thousands of spectators watched in horror. The aircraft, both part of the Navy’s VAQ-129 Growler Demo Team, slammed into each other during a close formation maneuver at the Gunfighter Skies 2026 air show.

Dramatic Collision Caught on Video

Video footage captured at the scene shows the two aircraft approaching each other in tight formation before the collision occurred. Moments after impact, four parachutes deployed as crew members ejected from the damaged jets. Kim Sykes, marketing director with Silver Wings of Idaho, confirmed to the Associated Press that all four crew members landed safely following the mid-air incident.

Base Locked Down After Incident

Mountain Home Air Force Base immediately implemented lockdown procedures following the collision. Emergency responders rushed to the scene to secure the crash site and assist the ejected crew members. The base had been hosting its first major air show since 2018, with the event themed “Freedom Takes Flight” to celebrate America’s 250th birthday. The show featured historic warbirds and modern fighter jets, including scheduled performances by the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds.

Weather Conditions Under Investigation

High winds plagued the area throughout the weekend, and multiple attendees reported that weather conditions had already affected portions of the air show before the collision. Investigators will examine whether the strong winds contributed to the accident. The Navy has launched a full investigation into the cause of the mid-air collision. Both aircraft were assigned to the VAQ-129 Vikings squadron, which operates EA-18G Growler electronic warfare jets.

First Major Show in Eight Years

The Gunfighter Skies air show represented Mountain Home Air Force Base’s return to hosting large-scale aviation events after an eight-year hiatus. Thousands of spectators had gathered at the Idaho base to witness aerial demonstrations celebrating American military aviation history and capability. The collision occurred during the demonstration portion of the show, cutting short what organizers had planned as a patriotic celebration of American air power and freedom.